Northampton manager departs after poor start

Stuart Gray has paid the price for Northampton Town's disappointing start to the new season after the League Two club confirmed the departure of their manager on Tuesday.

The Cobblers had taken seven points from their opening six games of the campaign following relegation last season and a 3-1 home defeat to Barnet last week proved decisive, with club and manager deciding to part company.

Gray was appointed as Northampton manager in January 2007 and won 44 of his 135 games in charge.

"It is with a heavy heart that we, the club and Stuart Gray have come to this decision but it is necessary to consider what is in the best interests of the club both long term and to try and win promotion this season," chairman David Cardoza told the club's official website.

"We, the board of directors, have Stuart every opportunity to strengthen the squad this summer and to build a squad capable of taking the club straight back up. Although Stuart brought some good players to the club our results and performances have been very disappointing for both the club and our loyal supporters.

"Ian Sampson will be in temporary charge until further notice, assisted by Jim Barron. No-one is ruled in and no-one is ruled out of becoming the next manager of Northampton Town. I am sure this club will be an attractive proposition to a lot of potential managers and we will see what the next few days and weeks bring."